dwell or filler for points??

[ktm25089]

Hello again,
just wondering,if it's better to use the dwell meter to adjust the points or the filler gauge?What is the dwell for the M38A1?

Thanks
George

[GPA]

Dwell meter should be used, it is much more accurate. Feeler blade can not take unevenness or pitting in account on the contact face of the points. Dwell angle is in your manual, but there are variations between different manuals. In some manuals it is 38 in some 42 degrees. Use the latest or one recommended by Wes.

[wesk]

Let's first make sure we are on the same page.

Gap is set using a feeler gauge.

If points are pitted and have excessive buildups on one or both contacts they should be filed smooth with a METAL point file or replaced.

A correct setting of the points with the feeler gauge with the engine not running will result in the correct dwell reading with the engine running.

This distributor has no provision for adjustment of points while the engine is running. It has no provisions for mechanically making fine adjustments. You must rely on the the contacts being allowed to closed on a gauge leaf. 0.020 is the correct leaf. When done correctly the resulting dwell will be within tolerance.

So the sole purpose of checking dwell with the engine running is to confirm your basic setting with the feeler gauge and to ascertain that shaft, bushing, & cam lobe wear are not affecting your setting. Do not try and compensate for these wear issues by varying the gap. Just fix what is broke or worn.

If you wish to take the adjustment to an unnecessary level of accuracy then yes you can fine tune the setting based on your dwell readings by increasing the thickness of your selected feeler gauge to compensate for a low dwell reading or you can decrease the thickness of your selected gauge leaf for a high dwell reading.

As for varying specs in different books I believe all the factory and Army manuals agree on 42 degrees for all F & L-134 engines with Auto-Lite distributors with some offering a tolerance of 40.5 to 42 . The questionable specs are found in the Factory, Haynes, Chilton and Clymer manuals which apply to the L & F-134 engines equipped with Delco distributors which are set at 0.022 and 25-34 Degrees of dwell.

[ktm25089]

Thanks again Wes